Mardi Gras Indians is the term used to describe members of organized 'tribes' which enact a spectacular multi-cultural tradition which takes place each year on Mardi Gras day.

Tribes such as the Wild Magnolias, White Eagles, Yellow Pocahontas, Crealo Wild West, Golden Blades and the Wild Chopitulas, of which the Neville Brothers are members, have continued this tradition that began in the 1880's in New Orleans. It involves 'masking' in Native American style dress. Then, following in procession to the delight and pride of the inner city community, 'Spy Boy' scouts the way followed by Trail Chief and Big Chief.

This is how Mardi Gras is celebrated in the black communities. Spy Boy uses hand signals to communicate with Trail Chief and so on down a loosely structured line, all surrounded by community members who shake tambourines and beat drums. There is no pre-scripted route such as there is in the French Quarters.

At sunrise Spy Boy scouts the way for his tribe to follow. Spy Boy and Trail Chiefs mask in dazzling colors and beadwork. Often, it's Big Chief who wears the most elaborate dress, of feathers and intricate beadwork. He brags about how 'pretty' he looks and how 'bad' he is. I've heard,

I run through fire, swim through mud
snatch feathers from the eagle,
drink panther blood....

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